Park Avenue Pediatric Dentistryhttp://www.parkavepd.com
www.parkavepd.comThu, 30 Jul 2015 15:43:58 +0000enhourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.3Don’t let summertime turn into junk food time.http://www.parkavepd.com/blog/don%e2%80%99t-let-summertime-turn-into-junk-food-time-2
http://www.parkavepd.com/blog/don%e2%80%99t-let-summertime-turn-into-junk-food-time-2#commentsThu, 23 Jul 2015 15:29:28 +0000editorhttp://www.parkavepd.com/?p=1320read more]]>With summer well under way, many changes are taking place in your child’s normal, structured routine. School time, after school activities and organized play dates are being replaced with family vacations, summer camp, outings to amusement parks and outdoor fairs. Though we all want summertime to be a time for loosening up and having fun, we should not undo the valuable efforts we have placed on making sure our children avoid sugary foods and drinks throughout the rest of the year. Yes, there may be occasional exceptions, but staying aware of healthier alternatives is always the best route.

Park View’s Point of ViewAt Park View Pediatric Dentistry, we want to help you maintain your child’s daily oral health routine at all times during the year, especially in the summer when traveling or new experiences may throw off the normal schedule. This should include daily brushing and flossing and making sure visits to your pediatric dentist are scheduled for twice a year. However, it seems that during the summer months every turn has tempting sugary treats staring children in the face. What’s a parent to do?

Here are some common sugary junk food situations that the summer may present and some helpful solutions.

The Carnival Candy Craze — If you find yourself bringing the family to a carnival, state fair or even a city street fair, there will be a vast array of food and sweets. Whatever you do, and as festive as it may look, avoid cotton candy and large swirly lollipops at all cost! It is just a lot of pure sugar in one dose. Giant sized soda drinks are also sold at these events and should be equally avoided.

Solution — Thankfully many fairs are now including many healthy alternatives, including fresh fruit cups and slices of watermelon, pineapple or mango — equally as colorfully, but a lot better for your children. Bottled water is also sold and is always the preferred choice.

Away at Sleep-away— If your children are going away to summer camp, it obviously will be hard to control what they eat for the entire time. While we don’t want to deprive them of that occasional camp side “s’mores” experience, there is some advanced planning we can do.

Solution — When interviewing for a summer camp have an open conversation about nutrition and the amount of sugary treats that will be served. Choose a camp that has a good health conscious meal menus. Send your child off with an oral health kit in a colorful user-friendly pack that will include a new toothbrush, floss sticks and a mouth rinse. Impress upon your child that if they have occasional treat, it is more important than ever to brush away the sugar that is lingering in the mouth and can cause tooth decay.

Road Trip Munchies — Whether you are planning a family road trip, camping trip or a one day picnic, it may be tempting to pack candy, sweets, cakes or pastries. This should be especially avoided since it may not be as convenient for the family to brush their teeth right after eating.

Solution — With a little pre-planning you can pack a vast array of healthy nutritious snacks, packed neatly in colorful, lidded containers. These can include nuts, trail mix, fresh cut vegetables, low fat dips and fresh fruit. You can even get creative with nut spreads on apple slices or fresh fruit skewers sprinkled with coconut. It’s important to remember to make healthy choices a fun and positive experience.

We hope you are having a great summer of 2015, while you keep up the great oral health habits!

]]>http://www.parkavepd.com/blog/don%e2%80%99t-let-summertime-turn-into-junk-food-time-2/feed0What is Dental Bonding?http://www.parkavepd.com/blog/what-is-dental-bonding
http://www.parkavepd.com/blog/what-is-dental-bonding#commentsTue, 30 Jun 2015 17:43:07 +0000blogwriterhttp://www.parkavepd.com/?p=1302read more]]>Dental bonding is a process wherein a special tooth color resin is applied to a tooth and later hardened with a special light. Dental bonding is performed to improve a tooth’s appearance or to restore it.

When is Denting Bonding an Option?

Dental bonding is a good option to repair decaying or decayed teeth, to repair cracked or chipped teeth, improve a discolored tooth’s appearance, close space between two teeth, make the teeth longer, change a tooth’s shape or in place of amalgam fillings or to protect a tooth’s root after erosion of the gums.

How is Dental Bonding Performed?

The tooth is prepared: A bit of preparation is necessary before the dental bonding process can begin. Anesthesia is not given to the patient unless there is a tooth filling involved. The first step is to select the right color of the composite resin (it should match the color of the tooth closely).

The actual bonding: The tooth surface is roughened so that it will hold the composite. A conditioning agent is also added to the tooth. The composite is then pasted on the tooth and moulded to the desired shape. Next, it is smoothed. After the proper shape is achieved, the dentist trims, reshapes and polishes the tooth to make sure that the sheen resembles the natural tooth. This whole process takes just 30 to 60 minutes.

Advantages of Dental Bonding

There are several advantages to dental bonding. It is very easy to perform and one of the least expensive cosmetic dental techniques. Unlike a crown or veneer which has to manufactured in a lab, a dental bonding can be done in one clinical visit (unless there are several teeth involved). Another advantage compared to crowns and veneers is that the tooth enamel is conserved. Finally, you don’t have to take anesthesia, as long as you are not using the technique to fill cavities.

For more information about dental bonding, contact Park Ave Pediatric Dentistry. We are located in Fifth Avenue, New York. We can be directly reached at 212 879 6518. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

]]>http://www.parkavepd.com/blog/what-is-dental-bonding/feed0Cancelling Your Child's Dental Care Has its Consequenceshttp://www.parkavepd.com/blog/cancelling-your-childs-dental-care-has-its-consequences
http://www.parkavepd.com/blog/cancelling-your-childs-dental-care-has-its-consequences#commentsThu, 28 May 2015 15:19:22 +0000editorhttp://www.parkavepd.com/?p=1295read more]]>As parents, we all know the challenges of juggling children’s busy schedules— from sports to after school activities, to play dates and piles of homework. It’s crucial to remember that making time for their overall health and oral health is also an important part of scheduling and vital to the healthy growth process. Although occasional situations do arise when cancelling a pediatric dental appointment is simply unavoidable, rescheduling on the spot is of the utmost importance to maintain the recommended twice a year routine checkup.

The end of the school year is also a particularly busy time in a pediatric dentist’s office, as parents prepare to send their children to sleep-away camp or get ready for a summer vacation. The last thing any parent wants is for their child to have a dental emergency while away. Therefore, be aware that rescheduling may be difficult at this time of the year, so it’s wise to make keeping your child’s dental appointment a pre-summer priority.

At Park View Pediatric Dentistry we always strive for having our young patients proudly claiming cavity-free visits. Maintaining that twice a year schedule is a major factor in this preventative approach. We often warn that the tiny beginnings of a cavity can occur beyond this period. We urge our parents to reschedule rather than cancel and also offer a valuable problem/solution approach to some typical cancellation reasons.

Problem:
“My child’s weekday schedule is just too jammed and it’s hard to get them there right afterschool.”

PVPD Solution:
Don’t worry – we’ll work with you to get them in. We have special early hours every Saturday, between 8:30 AM and 2:30 PM. We also pride ourselves on keeping appointment times to a minimum – getting our young patients out the door as soon as possible.

Problem:
“My teen has so many after school activities and homework is piling up”

PVPD Solution:
Our teen patients are important to us. We’ll even get them an Uber car home or to their next activity, if they get themselves here on time. We also have iPads available in our waiting room if they need to do any research for a homework assignment while they wait.

Problem:
“My young child is afraid to come in and has anxiety about the dentist.”

PVPD Solution:
Then you’ve come to the right place! Children love our bright, colorful subway-themed office and caring all-female staff. We’ll help you explain to your child what a great positive experience is waiting for them here – complete with waiting room activities, goody bags, stickers and sugar-free ice pops. We also offer the widest range of safe sedation options for children with high anxiety.

]]>http://www.parkavepd.com/blog/cancelling-your-childs-dental-care-has-its-consequences/feed0Most Common Dental Problems in Childrenhttp://www.parkavepd.com/whats-new/most-common-dental-problems-in-children
http://www.parkavepd.com/whats-new/most-common-dental-problems-in-children#commentsTue, 26 May 2015 21:42:55 +0000adminhttp://www.parkavepd.com/?p=1288read more]]>Children are more vulnerable to dental problems than adults are, often due to their taste for sugary and sweet foods and drinks. The good news is that with proper oral hygiene and care, many dental problems in children can be prevented.

Common Dental Issues in Children

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay - This is one of the most common problems that children, especially toddlers and young ones still on bottle feeding, have to face. Excessive exposure to dairy products, sweet juices and formula containing sugar can lead to tooth decay early on. The more they feed on such products, the more bacteria is produced in the mouth, eventually resulting in decay of one of more teeth.

Early Tooth Loss - The early loss of teeth is another dental issue that parents should address. It is common for kids to lose their baby teeth after a certain age. However if they lose them very early on, then it is a cause for concern.

Thumb sucking - Thumb sucking is a common and even healthy sign in infants and babies, as it gives them some sort of comfort and security. However, if the habit continues even after the age of 5, children may experience dental problems like protruding teeth and excessive bacteria buildup in the mouth.

Tongue Thrusting - Like thumb sucking, tongue thrusting can also result in problems like protruding teeth. Tongue thrusting involves in pressing the tongue against the lips to prevent swallowing. If this habit cannot be broken, the child may even end up with speech problems.

Interested in Learning More About Common Dental Problems in Children? Contact Park View Pediatric Dentistry.

For more information about common dental problems in children, contact our doctors at Park View Pediatric Dentistry. We are located in New York, NY and can be reached directly at (212) 879-6518. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

]]>http://www.parkavepd.com/whats-new/most-common-dental-problems-in-children/feed0Composite Filling Vs. Amalgam Fillinghttp://www.parkavepd.com/cavities/composite-filling-vs-amalgam-filling
http://www.parkavepd.com/cavities/composite-filling-vs-amalgam-filling#commentsTue, 28 Apr 2015 14:32:08 +0000adminhttp://www.parkavepd.com/?p=1281read more]]>When you visit your dentist for a filling appointment, you have to make a decision. Which material do you choose – composite resins or amalgam metallic alloys? The two kinds of fillings are also popularly called white and silver fillings, respectively, to indicate their colors. Each of the materials have their pros and cons.

What Is The Difference?

Composite fillings: These contain a plastic resin which is initially soft but strengthens when it is exposed to a curing process under blue light. They can be used for any size of cavity, no matter how small, and are available in a wide range of colors and can be matched to your teeth almost perfectly. Another advantage is that they won’t darken over time. However, they have a few disadvantages too. During the procedure, no water should be introduced and the tooth should be dry. Otherwise, their life span reduces. Since they are softer than amalgams, they wear out quicker. If you grind your teeth, they will wear out even faster. They also require you to maintain very good dental hygiene; otherwise, cavities may develop around the edges of the filling. Regular brushing and flossing are necessary to maintain these fillings and keep teeth healthy.

Amalgam fillings: While composite fillings have only been around for about 4 decades, amalgams have been in use for almost a century. They are a mixture of silver, tin, copper and mercury. However, unlike composites, amalgam fillings need to be of a certain minimum size. If your cavity is very small, it may not be possible to choose this option, unless you are willing to live with irregularly shaped teeth. Further, they are available only in one color: silver. But, compared to composites, they have a much longer life span. While you still need to maintain good oral hygiene, lest you suffer from recurring cavities, any cavities formed along the edges of amalgam fillings will be automatically sealed off and it becomes difficult for bacteria to go deeper into your teeth. Finally, amalgam fillings are comparatively cheaper than composite ones.

We care about children’s dental health. Contact us today to make an appointment today for your child. Our offices are located in New York, and we can be reached at 212-879-6518. We hope to hear from you soon.

]]>http://www.parkavepd.com/cavities/composite-filling-vs-amalgam-filling/feed0"Very Nurturing, Nice and Fun"!http://www.parkavepd.com/testimonials/i-cannot-picture-myself-going-anywhere-else
http://www.parkavepd.com/testimonials/i-cannot-picture-myself-going-anywhere-else#commentsWed, 25 Mar 2015 18:12:02 +0000editorhttp://www.parkavepd.com/?p=1259read more]]>We had a great experience with my 8 year old son. The dentists explained everything in such a way that an 8 year old can understand what they are going to do but also not be worried. They are very nurturing, nice and fun. My son actually loves going to the dentist because it is such a relaxed nice office. He never feels anxiety at all. In fact today he told the dentists that HE wanted to become a dentist.

-Anonymous

]]>http://www.parkavepd.com/testimonials/i-cannot-picture-myself-going-anywhere-else/feed0Why Flossing Is Important For Childrenhttp://www.parkavepd.com/whats-new/why-flossing-is-important-for-children
http://www.parkavepd.com/whats-new/why-flossing-is-important-for-children#commentsWed, 18 Mar 2015 20:23:18 +0000adminhttp://www.parkavepd.com/?p=1265read more]]>It may seem like children don’t need to have great oral hygiene when they are still toddlers. After all, their baby teeth are just going to fall out, but don’t wait for your children to have their permanent teeth to begin teaching them to take care of their oral health. Start good habits now for a lifetime of oral health.

Dentists recommend that you start regularly brushing your children’s teeth as soon as their first teeth emerge. Once two neighboring teeth break through the gums, start flossing your children’s teeth as well.

3 Reasons Why Children Need To Floss

Habits are formed young: Even if you are flossing for your child (which most parents do until a child is six or seven years old) that practice becomes ritualized. That means that your child recognizes that flossing is a part of the daily routine. Establishing this ritual early on makes it more likely that your children will continue to floss independently throughout their lives out of habit.

Children have plaque: Just like adults, children’s teeth can be plagued by plaque. A naturally forming biofilm, plaque is made up of bacteria that clings to the teeth. The longer bacteria rests on the teeth, the harder the plaque becomes and the more damage it can do to the teeth over time. Flossing regularly breaks up plaque before it hardens.

Gum protection: Even though your children’s baby teeth fall out, their gums remain intact. To protect your children’s gums from disease and infection, your children’s teeth must be flossed often because the bacteria on the teeth can also affect gum health.

We care about children’s dental health. Contact us today to make an appointment today for your child. Our offices are located in New York, and we can be reached at 212-879-6518. We hope to hear from you soon.

]]>http://www.parkavepd.com/whats-new/why-flossing-is-important-for-children/feed0"Pediatric Dentistry at it's Best"!http://www.parkavepd.com/testimonials/pediatric-dentistry-at-its-best
http://www.parkavepd.com/testimonials/pediatric-dentistry-at-its-best#commentsMon, 16 Mar 2015 17:59:01 +0000editorhttp://www.parkavepd.com/?p=1256Pediatric dentistry at it’s best. Dr. Pilla and her lovely team make going to the dentist a treat. Everyone is knowledgeable and helpful and kind and the technology and office are state-of-the-art. I know my child’s teeth are in the hands of the best!

-Terry S.

]]>http://www.parkavepd.com/testimonials/pediatric-dentistry-at-its-best/feed0"I Cannot Think of a Finer Dental Practice"!http://www.parkavepd.com/testimonials/i-cannot-think-of-a-finer-dental-practice
http://www.parkavepd.com/testimonials/i-cannot-think-of-a-finer-dental-practice#commentsThu, 12 Mar 2015 15:47:06 +0000editorhttp://www.parkavepd.com/?p=1253Dr. Lambert has known my daughters since they were very young & they are now both in high school. She is BEYOND fabulous; unflaggingly professional, caring & gets her message across about the importance of taking care of their teeth & flossing!!!! I cannot think of a finer dental practice for my daughters.
]]>http://www.parkavepd.com/testimonials/i-cannot-think-of-a-finer-dental-practice/feed0How to Make Brushing Children's Teeth Funhttp://www.parkavepd.com/whats-new/how-to-make-brushing-childrens-teeth-fun
http://www.parkavepd.com/whats-new/how-to-make-brushing-childrens-teeth-fun#commentsFri, 27 Feb 2015 20:08:13 +0000adminhttp://www.parkavepd.com/?p=1250read more]]>Often, children are too busy playing to find brushing their teeth fun. However, if you are able to make dental care fun and exciting, they will start seeing it more as a game than a chore. To follow are some of the ways you can make brushing children’s teeth fun.

How to Make Brushing Children’s Teeth Fun

Play music: Children love music, so turn it up and start dancing. As you are dancing, place the toothbrush with toothpaste in your child’s mouth. You both may need to slow down, but you’ll still be dancing and they’ll love it.

Set a timer: Everything is a race, so make teeth brushing a marathon. Set a timer for two minutes, and tell your child that he or she has a challenge to brush their teeth for two whole minutes. Ask them if they can do it. When they say yes, start the timer and see them brush away.

Come up with an incentive: An incentive can be a great way for a child to develop positive dental habits. Give your child five more minutes of tablet time or a special treat after dinner if they brush their teeth morning and night. You may need to negotiate, but as long as they achieve the goal of brushing their teeth, that’s what matters.

Use special mouthwash: Some brands of mouthwash will leave a color on the teeth to guide children when they brush their teeth. If they can still see the color on their teeth after brushing, they didn’t do it well enough. Make it a game by saying that they have to try to get all of the color off their teeth in two minutes.

Brush teeth together: Your children just want to be with you, even if that means brushing teeth. Ask your children to join you in the bathroom with their toothbrushes and toothpaste. They will enjoy the time spent together so much that they may not even realize they are taking good care of their teeth.

We care about children’s dental health. Contact us today to make an appointment today for your child. Our offices are located in New York, and we can be reached at 212-879-6518. We hope to hear from you soon.